PARIS: Over the past five years, Renault has been exploring its 128-year history, reviving some of its iconic models in the form of one-offs.
The latest model is a reboot of the iconic Renault 8 Gordini.
A two-seater electric coupé with real character, the Renault 8 Gordini concept gives the legend a new look, with a design inspired by motorsports.
“With Renault 8 Gordini Concept, we wanted to spark emotion by drawing on both our heritage and modern times, bringing together the icons of yesterday and the future. This exercise in style sets out to reinvent Renault 8 Gordini for the modern day," said Renault design vice president Alexandre Malval.
"The aim of this coupé is to inspire emotion and capture the imagination of all car enthusiasts. And when I talk about emotion, I’m not talking about nostalgia, but real passion for cars.”
Launched in 1964, the 8 Gordini featured a 95hp rear-mounted engine and rear-wheel-drive layout.
The 8 Gordini (“la Gorde”) was a superb "training car” for a generation of drivers, including Jean Ragnotti.
The hallmark double white stripe became iconic.
As part of a similar approach, Renault is now revisiting this iconic model with an exploratory project, for the delight of motoring enthusiasts everywhere.
This latest model follows the R17 electric restomod x Ora Ïto concept car, and Renault 5 Diamant – an art car created in collaboration with Pierre Gonalons.
Unlike the R17 show car, which was based on a collaboration between well-known designer Ora Ito and the brand’s design teams, the 8 Gordini Concept is 100% Renault in its design.
The 8 Gordini Concept is 4.12-metre long, 1.88-metre wide and 1.27-metre tall, with particularly compact and dynamic proportions.
Shod with 19-inch wheels at the front and 20-inch wheels at the rear, it sits squarely on the road, much like today’s rally cars.
This two-door coupé is far more dynamic than the original four-door model, with an aggressive prow, accentuated by the V-shaped design, and six headlights.
The difference today is that the vehicle is powered by a 270hp electric motor.
Other nods to the original include the shell-shaped wing mirrors and grille spanning the full width of the bonnet at the base of the windscreen.
Similarly, the rear ventilation grille has also been maintained for its aesthetic appeal, as well as playing a functional role.
